20 percent reported that they were pushed, shoved, tripped, or spit on.

The effects of this type of treatment are not to be taken lightly. StopBullying.gov lists depression, anxiety, decreased academic achievement and more as possible effects of being bullied. Some children even retaliate through extreme violence or commit suicide. Those children who bully others tend to abuse alcohol and other drugs, get into fights, get into trouble with the law, and later in life, can often be abusive toward romantic partners or children.

Each October, we promote National Bullying Prevention Month as a way to remind our customers of the importance of their roles in students’ lives. Students come to school looking to learn in a peaceful, supportive environment, but there are many things that could get in the way of this. Educators can help by identifying, intervening and preventing bullying and violence – and we hope you continue to have a hand in helping students feel safe while in school.